This set of twelve short pieces is for basic orchestras and helps young musicians learn important string techniques. The pieces incorporate hissing, slapping of instruments, foot stomping, and improvisation to make playing in a string ensemble more enjoyable.
1. Pickin' 'n' Peckin'
2. Desert Nights
3. War Zone
4. Bagpipes
5. Attack of the Flying Insects
6. Raindrops
7. A Pirate's Shanty
8. Valse Enchante
9. Silk
10. Hootenanny Hoedown
11. Russian Easter Hymn
12. Surf's Up!
For String Orchestra Grade 1
This delightful assortment of twelve brief compositions is tailored specifically for novice orchestras and is an excellent tool for introducing young musicians to a variety of important string techniques. Through these pieces, students learn how to perform bowed tremolo, sustained bows, accented strokes, and simple double stopping while also having the opportunity to experiment with hissing, slapping of instruments, foot stomping, and improvisation. The result is an incredibly engaging and fun-filled experience for young players, who will undoubtedly feel inspired to perform their favourite pieces again and again.
1. Pickin' 'n' Peckin'
2. Desert Nights
3. War Zone
4. Bagpipes
5. Attack of the Flying Insects
6. Raindrops
7. A Pirate's Shanty
8. Valse Enchante
9. Silk
10. Hootenanny Hoedown
11. Russian Easter Hymn
12. Surf's Up!
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Chin, Haydn Symphony No.60 1st Movement
This arrangement for strings is faithful to the original work with the added features of sharing the melodic lines, a slight editing of a few bars of the bass part, a violin 3 part and a keyboard realization. It is also an excellent way to develop Classical style spiccato in more advanced players.
This work is a companion to “Bells of Ghengis Khan”, featuring insistent rhythms and pounding fifths that create a sense of impending conflict. The middle section depicts soldiers reflecting upon their loved ones before the battle resumes, with victors’ shouts heard towards the end. The piece uses techniques such as harmonics, tremolo, and pizzicato to add richness to the tone colours.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel is a beautiful piece for string orchestra. This arrangement includes optional adaptations to suit different instruments and grade levels. A universally cherished work, now more inclusive!
This enchanting tone poem creates a peaceful atmosphere with its soft melodies and forest whispers. The sweeping beauty of the noble theme leads to a faster section with contrasting themes and variations. The string section uses various techniques to create a dynamic sound, featuring a brief solo quartet. The piece ends with a reference to the opening melody and the sound of a waterfall. Musicians will enjoy using their imagination to bring this musical landscape to life.
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
Showcase your beginner strings and concert band in an orchestra with this fun rondo piece written in the Hungarian style. The wind, strings and full orchestra each have their own chance to shine, and the manageable note values and pitch repertoire make it perfect for novices.
The Midnight Serenade starts with faint calls of the night. The haunting melody is shared throughout the piece over a waltz-like accompaniment. Dark Train is a dynamic composition based on a simple three-note ostinato, with whistle effects that excite younger players.
1. Midnight Serenade
2. Dark Train
For String Orchestra Grade 1
The Iching, a series of texts created by Emperor Zhou in the 9th century BC China, helps interpret thoughts and dreams. Its orchestral representation features an energetic section that paints a vibrant life in ancient China and concludes with thrilling cascades of repeated sixteenth notes.
